Khoresh Karafs, an Iranian celery and lamb stew

Step into the enchanting world of Persian cuisine and allow your taste buds to dance with delight as we embark on a culinary journey exploring the exquisite flavors of Khoresh Karafs. This delicious celery stew has stolen the hearts of Iranians and food lovers worldwide. Picture this: tender meat, fragrant herbs, and the earthy goodness of celery, all coming together in a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re a culinary explorer or a seasoned foodie, Khoresh Karafs promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the very best of Persian gastronomy. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to dive into the realm of this timeless classic, where tradition meets pure deliciousness.

What do You Need for Khoresh Karafs:

Celery:

The star of the show, celery takes center stage in Khoresht Karafs. Fresh celery stalks add a delightful bitterness and unique crunch to the stew. It is recommended to use the tender inner stalks for the best results, although using the green leaves can make the stew delicious as well.

Herbs and Aromatics:

As with many Persian dishes, a fistful of fresh and dried herbs elevates the flavors of Khoresh Karafs. A typical combination includes parsley, mint, and dill, each adding its distinct fragrance and essence. A touch of tarragon can also contribute to the aromatic symphony.

Lamb Meat:

To infuse the stew with richness and depth, tender cuts of lamb or beef are traditionally used. The succulent meat complements the herbal infusion, imparting a savory element that harmonizes perfectly with the celery. You can even substitute red meat with chicken thigh or breasts for a more healthy result, creating a controversial dish called Khoresh Karafs with chicken.

Dried lime:

As a tangy stew Khoresh Karafs needs a souring agent. Dried Persian limes, known as Limo Amani, work wonders in transforming the stew into a taste sensation. Their unique flavor permeates the dish slowly, enhancing the overall experience. Alternatively, lemon or lime juice can be used as substitutes.

Rice:

No Persian stew is complete without its accompanying rice. For Khoresht Karafs, fragrant Persian rice serves as the perfect partner, complementing the flavors and textures of the stew. The Chelo method, with its fluffy and aromatic results, pairs exceptionally well.

Preparing Khoresh Karafs: A Step-by-Step Guide:

Ingredients for 4:

4 cups celery, thinly sliced

1 cup parsley, finely chopped

1/2 cup mint, finely chopped

1/4 cup dill, finely chopped

2 tbsp tarragon, finely chopped

300 grams of lamb or beef, cubed

1 large onion, finely chopped

2-3 Limo Amani (dried Persian limes)

Salt, black pepper, turmeric (optional), to taste

2-3 tbsp vegetable or olive oil

Step 1: Cooking the meat

In a large pot (a slow cooker or instant pot can be used too), sauté the onions and meat with oil over medium heat until the meat is nicely browned. Season with salt, pepper, and turmeric, if desired, for added depth of flavor.

Step 2: Adding the vegetables

Add the sliced celery, parsley, mint, dill, and tarragon to the pot. Stir well to combine the flavors. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes until the herbs release their fragrant aromas.

Step 3: Slow cooking the stew

Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, allowing their flavors to infuse the stew. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a couple of hours, allowing the meat to tenderize and the flavors to meld together.

Note: Slow cooking over low heat is key to achieving the best results, as it allows the flavors to develop and intensify.

Step 4: Serving

Once the stew has thickened and the flavors have melded together beautifully, add Limoo Amani and adjust the seasoning to taste. Serve Khoresh Karafs hot, accompanied by fragrant Persian rice, and savor the enticing combination of flavors and textures.

Vegetarian Khoresh Karafs:

For those seeking vegetarian or vegan alternatives, Khoresh Karafs can be easily customized. Instead of meat, substitute hearty ingredients such as beans (like Ghormeh Sabzi), mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas to provide the desired texture and substance and create the most delicious Vegetarian Khoresh Karafs. The rest of the preparation remains the same, ensuring that everyone can relish the flavors of this traditional Persian stew.

Khoresh Karafs stands as a testament to the culinary heritage of Iran, captivating taste buds with its delicate blend of flavors and aromas. From the refreshing bitterness of celery to the aromatic medley of herbs and tender meat, each component contributes to an unforgettable dining experience. Whether prepared traditionally or tailored to specific dietary preferences, Khoresh Karafs brings a taste of Persian cuisine to your table, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of flavors that define Iranian culinary traditions.